Towards Packaging highlights growth and sustainability trends in disposable packaging

Demand for disposable packaging is expected to surge, driven by its broad applications in food, healthcare, and personal care, alongside the growth of eCommerce, food delivery, and healthcare needs.

With increased awareness of environmental sustainability, there has been a significant push for eco-friendly packaging materials. The growing preference for biodegradable and recyclable options such as paper, bioplastics, and compostable materials is reshaping the disposable packaging market. Leading companies are investing in sustainable innovations to cater to environmentally-conscious consumers.

Plastic continues to lead the disposable packaging market, accounting for a market share of 55.61% in 2023. The preference for single-use plastics in the food and healthcare sectors is largely attributed to its affordability, durability, sterility, and flexibility.

Popular forms of plastic used include Polyethylene (HDPE, LDPE) is popular in food delivery packaging; Polypropylene (PP) is widely used for medical devices and food containers; and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is commonly found in bottles and beverage packaging.

However, the rising environmental concerns over plastic waste have prompted a shift towards more sustainable materials, including biodegradable plastics, paper-based packaging and reusable solutions.

Paper-based packaging holds a strong position due to its biodegradable and recyclable nature. Products such as paper bags, cardboard boxes, and disposable plates are gaining traction as consumers and businesses prioritise sustainability. The packaging industry is increasingly investing in innovative paper materials to provide greener alternatives to plastic, particularly in foodservice and retail sectors.

The healthcare sector is another critical player in the disposables packaging market. The need for sterile, single-use medical devices like prefillable syringes, wound care supplies, and surgical instruments is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. The healthcare industry’s emphasis on infection control and patient safety has made disposable packaging solutions indispensable. Key products in this segment include pre-filled syringes, surgical kits, catheters and sterile wound care products.

In 2023, the food industry held the largest market share in the disposables packaging market. The growing trend of fast food consumption, food delivery services, and ready-to-eat meals has spurred the need for practical, lightweight, and hygienic packaging solutions. Consumers are increasingly looking for convenient, on-the-go options that are both time-efficient and sanitary.

Quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector, with major players like McDonald’s, KFC, and local chains, is also fueling the growth of disposable packaging in this region. The personal care and pharmaceutical industries are also contributing significantly to the increasing demand for disposable packaging.

The disposable packaging market is on a solid growth trajectory, driven by consumer demand for convenience, hygiene, and sustainability. The development of innovative materials such as bioplastics and compostable packaging will continue to shape the industry’s future, with companies focusing on circular economy principles like recycling, reuse, and waste reduction.

As more sustainable packaging solutions become available, businesses across industries must adapt to meet the evolving needs of both consumers and regulatory bodies. The shift towards environmentally responsible packaging will be crucial in maintaining competitive advantage in the years ahead.